Exclusive Interview: Elijah Boothe Discusses His Leading Role in City

Elijah Boothe has quickly established himself as one of Hollywood’s most exciting young actors. He’s blowing audiences away with his leading role in City.

The gripping drama follows desperate teenagers who ignite a gang war and narcotics investigation when they stumble upon a botched robbery and help themselves to the spoils.

Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to chat with Elijah about his role in the film!

PC: You’ve had a lot of success throughout your career. When you look back, is there a moment that stands out?
Elijah: Most definitely. Getting the opportunity to share the screen with the legendary LaTanya Richardson Jackson in Marvel’s Luke Cage on Netflix was an iconic experience I will never forget. Working with her was a true master class.

PC: Tell us about City, your character, and what drew you to this project.
Elijah: City is a drama about desperate teenagers that ignite a gang war and narcotics investigation when they stumble upon a botched robbery and help themselves to the spoils. I play the lead role of Kendall. The story most definitely drew me to the project. Out of all the roles I’ve been blessed with, I’d never before had the chance to portray a character that is so different from me, so I was up for the challenge.

PC: There are so many intense moments within the film. As an actor, how do you create the space for yourself to dive into those scenes?
Elijah: What has always helped me in my prep for heavy scenes is doing extensive character work to make sure that I am fully engulfed in and rooted in my character’s world. Using the method acting technique really allowed me to portray Kendall in the most authentic and honest light.

PC: This is one of your biggest roles to date. Did anything surprise you about the experience? What was the biggest takeaway?
Elijah: I honestly can’t say anything surprised me. When I accepted the role, I knew that there was something special about this film, and it has been incredible seeing that audiences feel the same way. My biggest take away I’d say would be meeting and working with so many talented actors and filmmakers that I still consider family to this day.

PC: The film has been incredibly well received. What do you think is resonating most with audiences?
Elijah: I think the humanity and authenticity of these characters are resonating most with audiences. When I first read the script, I immediately fell in love with the brotherly bond that Kendall has with his two best friends. I know that feeling is something most of us can relate with.

PC: What do you hope audiences take away after seeing it?
Elijah: I hope this film inspires audiences to be intentional about the decisions they make in life because every little choice we decide to make now has the power to affect what our future looks like moving forward.

To keep up with Elijah, follow him on Twitter and Instagram.